Color:

Life Span:

Breed Profile

Affection Level

Barking Tendencies

Cat Friendly

Cold Weather Tolerance

Exercise Needs

General Health

Grooming Needs

Hot Weather Tolerance

Intelligence

Kid Friendly

Playfulness

Shedding Level

Social Needs

Watchdog Ability

Did You Know?

The Gordon Setter is believed to be one of the ancestor breeds of the Labrador Retriever.

Gordon Setter Overview

At the breed’s origins in Scotland, Setters came in two styles, “Black and Fallow”. It wasn’t until the 1800s when the Duke of Gordon became associated with the dog, due to his love of the black and tan breed. The Gordon Setter is a versatile dog, at home in both the field and the house.

Gordon Setter Characteristics

Gordon Setters have a similar appearance to both the Irish and English Setters, however they all retain the characteristic black and tan coloration. Gordon Setters are also known to drool profusely, a trait shared with other giant breeds like the Newfoundland. Gordon Setters are also great family pets, happily helping to care for the family, and any children.

Gordon Setter Temperament

This breed is a friendly, loving and loyal breed. To his family, he is a loving and playful pet, however he may be slightly reserved around outsiders. This gives them a slight tendency toward being a guarding dog, especially if children are involved. They also excel in the field, where they are calm and steady — two traits that are highly prized.

Gordon Setter Care

Gordon Setters live on average 10 to 12 years, typical for dogs their size. They are prone to a few health concerns such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Their large size also makes them prone to bloat, or Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV), a serious and sudden disease.

Gordon Setter Coat

Like the other Setters, this setter breed sports a long, feathery coat. However, it is easy to keep well groomed with weekly brushing. Gordon Setters may also be prone to ear infections due to their dropped ears, so regular checking, cleaning and grooming of the ears is a must.

Gordon Setter Training

Gordon Setters can be a little stubborn when it comes to training, and patience is the key to getting the Gordon Setter to understand something new. Socialization is also important from an early age, to let the Gordon Setter get used to new situations.

Gordon Setter Activity

Gordon Setters thrive on activity. They need regular activity that tires them out. This includes field and hunting trials, long jogs, or anything that gives the Gordon Setter a chance to run until he is tired. Lack of proper exercise can result in a frustrated Setter who instead turns his energy toward destructive means.